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Fitness
and Skill Learning Irish dance has many benefits to children and young people. It develops key aspects of fitness and skill, from strength and power, to speed, balance, agility and co-ordination. Over time, young people become adept at performing complex sequences of movement to varied arrangements of music. Irish dance has the capacity to keep children interested, engaged and motivated for the duration of their childhoods, and well into adulthood. This form of dance can be enjoyed from the very early days of starting classes, right through to achieving success and acclaim as an elite athlete and artistic performer. Children and young people are presented with a progressive series of physical and technical challenges, new tasks to master on the road to becoming a skilled dancer. Confidence and performance skill develop as children overcome challenges and develop a greater level of self-worth. Friendship and Fun Friendships are naturally forged as children share experiences of learning, as well as aspirations to become fine dancers. The class environment is very supportive and more experienced dancers lend a hand, on a one-to-one basis, to help individuals that may be struggling with a particular move or rhythm sequence. The experience of learning is challenging, but also a lot of fun. Children delight in acquiring new skills, particularly when they have had to focus energy and effort to win through. As a school, we run events that provide dancers with positive learning experiences, that build confidence and hone performance skills. As a side point, these events are greatly enjoyed by dancers, their families and friends. Working with Bexley Schools We work extensively with schools throughout the borough. As well as being based at one of Bexley's grammar schools, we have collaborated with schools in after-school clubs, dance workshops, international cultural days, exhibitions and themed assemblies. As an out-of-school sports provider, we are acutely aware of the performance criteria that are in place for evaluating high quality physical education by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). We strive to satisfy every element of excellence in our sports provision. Feedback from our most recent engagement: Bursted Wood Primary School (July 2010) The assembly given by you was to a very high standard and thoroughly enjoyed by all. Opportunities like this are so enriching for our pupils. The children at our school were certainly in awe of the performance which they saw; pupils and even some teachers were seen enthusiasticlly practicing their own Irish dancing at play time!!! Headteacher, Bursted Wood Teachers' Comments included: "A fantastic display of young talent" "I was blown away by the performance". "Fantastic demonstration. Very creative and talented. Taster workshops would be beneficial, all pupils were so inspired". "Amazing! How wonderful to see such talented children who work so hard to achieve such amazing standards" "Wow! What a fantastic opportunity for both parties; our pupils were totally absorbed in the performance. Would it be possible to follow an assembly like this with Irish dancing taster workshops for our pupils – they were just so enthusiastic after the assembly that they wanted to have a try themselves?" "It was lovely to see the children from our school and other local primary schools showcasing their talent. It was an excellent way to promote children’s activities". To view the full feedback, click here Feedback from other School Engagements We were delighted to see the wonderful performance given by yourselves at our school. The dancing was absolutely outstanding and was enjoyed by all pupils and staff. Headteacher, Chatsworth Infant School Staff and pupils have asked me to congratulate you on your skills and talents. You have clearly had to work very hard to attain such a high level of ability. We enjoyed your performance very much. Headteacher, Birkbeck Primary School Your taster session of Irish dance was spectacular. The level of dancing shown by all the children was not only amazing, but a true inspiration to all fortunate enough to have watched your performance. The children were buzzing with excitement and I am sure many will want to follow in your footsteps and join your club. Belmont Primary School Your visit has inspired Brampton pupils and I would like to extend my thanks to your talented and enthusiastic dancers - they are welcome back any time. Brampton Primary School The series of dance workshops that you ran for us were tremendously successful. Pupils were constantly supported and praised which undoubtedly encoraged them to achieve. The following week at the school disco, Lord of the Dance was requested, and as soon as the music started, every child that took part in the workshops took to the dancefloor to demonstrate their new moves. Hook Lane Primary School Our pupils really enjoyed the spectacular performance offered by your pupils. Their skillful dance moves, athleticism and overall stage presence provided a very professional and entertaining assembly. Headteacher, Bedonwell Junior School We liked the children's performance. You are very good teachers. The music was exciting. It was very tappity and all the dancers needed to be very fit. Thank you for coming to our school. Pupils from East Wickham Infant School |
 Teachers side-stage
 Selina with Bexley
Mayor and Mayoress
 Irish Leap
 West End Performance  Jamie & Grace
with a day's winnings
 Eoin & Conor
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